The Text Reading Forum kicks off in Jeddah to discuss literature and Vision 2030
His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi, Governor of Jeddah, will inaugurate the of the Text Reading . The forum, organized by the Jeddah Literary Society, will feature a distinguished group of critics, writers, and intellectuals from within Saudi Arabia and abroad, reflecting Jeddah's prominent position as a hub for creativity, thought, and literature.
Deep historical roots serving the cultural landscape
This cultural forum boasts a rich history, having contributed for 22 years, nearly a quarter of a century, to the service of Arabic and Saudi literature. For decades, literary clubs in the Kingdom have undertaken the important task of enriching intellectual discourse, and the scholarly output of this annual gathering has become a valuable resource for researchers worldwide. Books and peer-reviewed research papers are published through it, becoming primary references for master's and doctoral theses at various Saudi and Arab universities, thus strengthening national identity and documenting cultural and literary heritage.
Prospects for Saudi Literature and Envisioning the Future
The organizing committee revealed that this year's edition will address a vital topic: "The Prospects of Saudi Literature in Light of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and its Future Horizons." This topic will be explored through eight main themes reflecting the evolution of the local creative experience. These themes encompass the impact of the ambitious vision on the transformation of literary genres, human development, and the prospects for investment and translation in the cultural sector. The sessions will also highlight the representations of place in contemporary Saudi literature, the development of digital discourse, and a review of new literary experiences that have emerged amidst major national transformations.
In a gesture of loyalty and appreciation, the forum will honor the short story writer and novelist Muhammad Ali Quds, as the “Distinguished Personality of the Year,” in recognition of his prolific literary career and his extensive contributions that have enriched the Saudi library with many valuable publications.
The impact of the Text Reading Forum on the regional and international scene
The impact of the Text Reading Forum extends beyond the local sphere to encompass regional and international arenas. By linking literary achievements to the objectives of Vision 2030, the event's significance in bolstering the Kingdom's soft power and exporting Saudi culture to the world becomes evident. The focus on translation and cultural investment opens new avenues for intercultural dialogue, making Saudi literature a rich subject for global critical studies and contributing to the development of critical reception tools to keep pace with the rapid global changes across all fields of human knowledge.
Strategic partnerships to support and sustain creativity
The Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Jeddah Literary Association, Dr. Abdullah Awaiqil Al-Sulami, affirmed that this continued success represents a significant milestone in the landscape of Saudi literature. He praised the generous support the forum receives from businessmen who believe in the importance of culture, specifically mentioning Sheikh Saeed Al-Anqari and Dr. Abdullah Dahlan. He explained that these men's belief in cultural work and the dedication it requires has directly contributed to the forum's continued success and the achievement of its outcomes, which have become prominent landmarks in the creative scene.
Al-Salmi concluded his remarks by expressing his thanks and appreciation to His Highness the Governor of Jeddah for his patronage and continuous support, stressing that the combined efforts of the wise leadership, intellectuals and supporters are the main driver for the success of events that befit the cultural status of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the world map.
